The FCC has allocated the spectrum from 4940-4990 MHz for public safety services. Commenters in the proceeding had requested the spectrum also be allocated for license-free Part 15 use, but the FCC determined such use could interfere with low power public safety operations in the band. Voice, data and video operations are permitted in the new band, but aeronautical mobile operations are prohibited.

This allocation may indirectly benefit broadcasters if it allows public safety agencies to move operations off of microwave frequencies shared with broadcasters.

The FAA’s current rules and proposed ban on flight over people, requirement of visual line of sight and restriction on nighttime flying, effectively prohibit broadcasters from using UAS for newsgathering. ~ WMUR-TV General Manager Jeff Bartlett